Summer - Business Services - University of Pennsylvania

SEASONS
Summer 2010
Volume 39 Number 3
A Note from the Director
PAUL W. MEYER, The F. Otto Haas Director
The New Horticulture Center –
An Exhibit in Sustainability
T
his spring, we have been celebrating the completion of the long-awaited
Horticulture Center at Bloomfield Farm. Staff members are thrilled with
the new offices, meeting rooms, facilities workshops and storage space
for their vehicles, equipment and materials. Indeed, the building is proving to be
highly functional and supportive of staff operations. For the first time, we have
professional facilities to match the professionalism of our staff. But, even as we
celebrate the building’s practical attributes, it is also important to think of the
whole building complex as an exhibit in architectural sustainability.
Since the 1980s, Arboretum staff have approached design challenges as exhibits.
When the George D. Widener Visitor Center was renovated in 1982, it was a
Photo: Nick Kelsh
study of best practices in the adaptive reuse of a historic building. Later, when
we built the main visitor parking lot in 1989, we didn’t just tuck it into a corner and hide it away. It was placed in the
center of the Arboretum and celebrated as an exhibit of best practices in parking lot landscape design and stormwater
management. Today, 25 years later, professionals and student groups continue to visit and study our zero runoff parking
lot with its innovative permeable paving.
Similarly, a visit to the Horticulture Center complex will be a study in sustainability. Beginning with their arrival in the
parking lot, visitors will see ample green islands and rain gardens to catch stormwater. As they approach the buildings,
two quite different examples of green roofs will be visible. The shallower roof with 4" of growing media is planted
with eight different kinds of sedum, while the 8" roof is designed to support a wider diversity of drought-tolerant plant
species. Many of these species are being tested and evaluated for their adaptability on a green roof. We are essentially
planting a desert in Pennsylvania; imagine spending a month in the full sun during a dry July in Philadelphia.
Also vying for visitors’ attention are two large cisterns catching excess water from the green roof, which can be used
for watering plants in the surrounding landscape. Additional underground cisterns provide supplemental water for
irrigation. Though all the plants in the landscape will eventually adapt to our unpredictable rainfall, they will benefit
from watering while getting established and periodically thereafter.
Behind the green roofs, on the roofs of other buildings in the complex are banks of photovoltaic cells and a solar hot
water heater. Less visible are the geothermal wells, which function like an underground radiator, taking advantage of
the near constant 54°F temperature of the earth to aid both heating and cooling of the office building. In addition
to the geothermal wells, the high performance envelope of the office building, renewable energy sources and daylight
harvesting will bring the overall annual energy savings up to 40% less than a comparable building constructed to meet
standard codes.
These are just a few of the many green features designed into the Horticulture Center by our design team of Overland
Partners, Muscoe Martin and Andropogon Associates. Our goal from the beginning of this project was to achieve the
Platinum LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) rating of sustainability from the Green Building
Council. As we complete construction, we believe this difficult goal is attainable.
But most important, through this building complex, the Morris Arboretum has created an exciting, functioning exhibit
on the best sustainable practices. As an environmental institution, it is important that we not only talk the talk, but
walk the walk!
Come join us as we walk the walk to the new Morris Arboretum Horticulture Center.
1|
MORRIS ARBORETUM
SEASONS
Morris Arboretum of the
University of Pennsylvania
Published quarterly as a benefit of membership. Inquiries
concerning back issues, missing issues, or subscriptions
should be addressed to the editor.
Available on microfilm.
USPS: 349-830. ISSN: 0893-0546
POSTMASTER: Send form 3759 to Newsletter,
100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Christine Pape, Editor
The Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania is
an educational institution that promotes an understanding
of the important relationships between plants and
people. The Arboretum conducts three major activities –
horticultural display, public and professional education,
and botanical and horticultural research.
Public Garden Hours:
Mon-Fri, 10-4
Sat/Sun, 10-5 (April - Oct.)
Sat/Sun, 10-4 (Nov. - March)
Thurs. 10-8:30 (June, July, August)
Information:
(215) 247-5777
www.morrisarboretum.org
http://www.upenn.edu/paflora
Guided Tours:
Every Sat/Sun, 2 p.m.
Visitor Entrance:
100 East Northwestern Avenue between
Germantown and Stenton Avenues in the
Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia
These articles may not be reproduced in any form without
the permission of the editor.
©2010 Copyright by the Trustees of the University of
Pennsylvania. 5500 / 5.10 / PM
Contents
1
2
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
10
11
12
13
14
14
15
15
16
16
16
17
A Note from the Director
Going Green
Out on a Limb Wins Models of Excellence Award
Summer-Flowering Shrubs
The Summer Palace Renovation
Conservation Corner
The McLean Contributionship: Committed to Botany
Lydia Morris Legacy Society
Gift Annuities
Pieces from the Past
A Look Back in Time
The Living Collection Catalogue Online
Natural Areas Bluebird Box Project
Membership News
Travel With the Arboretum
Woody Plants Conference
Fall Classes
Seasons Newsletter Wins Garden Writers Award
Volunteer Opportunities
The Shop
Summer Events
Photo: Paul W. Meyer
Arboretum Rentals
Hold your special event in one of Philadelphia’s
most beautiful settings. The Widener Center and
surrounding grounds are available for weddings,
parties, and private and corporate meetings up to
170 guests. For details contact Adele Waerig, Visitor
Services Coordinator, at (215) 247-5777 ext. 158.
e-newsletter
Would you like to receive our monthly e-newsletter
and other Arboretum updates via email? It’s a
great way for you to stay up-to-date on upcoming
events, register online and help us save trees!
Email [email protected] to be
added. To address the problems of SPAM, many
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and email systems
now block or filter email that is not from a “safe
sender.” Please add [email protected]
and [email protected] to your list
of accepted senders or friends list if you wish to
receive this information.
Cover Photo – Nick Kelsh
2|
MORRIS ARBORETUM
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
2
Going
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33| |MMOO
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Out on a Limb
wins Models of
Excellence Award
I
n April, staff members from the Morris Arboretum
were honored with a Model of Excellence Award
from the University of Pennsylvania. The award
was given to the Out On a Limb team for designing a
unique experience at the Arboretum that significantly
increased the number of visitors, while teaching them
about the importance of environmental stewardship
through play and experience. The Models of Excellence
program recognizes staff member contributions to the
University that are above and beyond job expectations
and reflect extraordinary initiative, leadership,
collaboration, and a deep commitment to service.
Photo: Carol Feeley
Out-on-a-Limb Tree Adventure Team Left to right –
first row: Janice McFarlan; Robert F. Anderson; Paul W.
Meyer; Liza Hawley; Susan Crane; Marc Steven Cooper,
Facilities & Real Estate Services. Left to right – second
row: Elizabeth Anthony Nestor, Facilities & Real Estate
Services; Robert Gutowski; Leslie A. Weisser; Mariette J.
Buchman, Facilities & Real Estate Services; Victoria Sicks.
Missing from Photo: Vincent A. Marrocco.
The public is invited to celebrate
Out on Limb’s 1st Birthday
on Saturday, July 3rd from
11am-1pm. Join us for a very
special birthday party, including cake
at noon (while supplies last), balloons,
magic and storytelling with Judy Tudy
the Clown, all Out on a Limb!
Photo: Paul Meyer
In honor of its 1st birthday this summer,
the Morris Arboretum invited babies
who were born since last July to have
their picture taken on Out on a Limb.
Reowned photographer Nick Kelsh
captured more than 30 one-year-old
babies and their parents as they gathered
to help celebrate this extraordinary new
exhibit that has drawn thousands of
visitors (of all ages!) to the Arboretum.
A gifted photographer and bestselling author, Nick Kelsh has been
volunteering his talents to the Morris
Arboretum for almost 25 years, creating
some of the Arboretum’s most enduring
and iconic images. He has just released
a new book, How to Photograph Your
Baby: Getting Closer with Your Camera
and Your Heart.
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
4
Summer-Flowering Shrubs
ANTHONY AIELLO, The Gayle E. Maloney Director of Horticulture & Curator
A
s summer rolls on and the days seem to get increasingly
hotter, many garden plants fade, become scorched, or
simply stop flowering. During the height of summer
in late July and early August, there are very few woody plants
whose flowers can withstand the heat and add interest to the
garden. Luckily, there are a few summer-flowering shrubs that
love hot, dry weather and add interest to one’s garden.
Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia, pictured above) is a
beautiful addition to any landscape. It is a semi-woody shrub
with an upright habit and silver-gray stems and leaves. Russian
sage grows in a dense clump, reaching three to five feet tall with
an equal spread. To keep the plant looking its best, Russian sage
should be cut back almost to the ground as soon as new leaves
emerge in the spring, since flowering occurs on new growth.
Russian sage comes into its glory in mid-summer when it
produces spikes of 12-inch, lavender-blue flowers that last for
several weeks. The combination of fine, purple flowers with its
silver-gray foliage provides great contrast to a mixed border or
a mass planting. Plants of Perovskia can get large, so it is best
to use it where it can reach its full size.
There are several varieties of Russian sage available: ‘Blue
Mist’ has light blue flowers and blooms earlier in the season;
‘Blue Spire’ has darker violet flowers; and ‘Little Spire’ is more
upright and less spreading than the species.
Caryopteris x clandonensis or bluebeard (inset), is another
excellent summer-flowering shrub, coming into bloom even
later than Perovskia. Its bright blue flowers are a welcome
addition to the garden in late summer and attract a host of
beneficial insects. Bluebeard is slightly smaller in stature than
Russian sage, generally reaching four feet tall with an equal
spread. This plant will also show some tip dieback after winter,
so it is best to prune it thoroughly once the new leaves begin
to emerge, usually in late March. I especially enjoy waiting for
this plant to come into flower and love its intense blue flowers.
Because of its relatively small size, it is useful in a variety of
situations, especially when added to a mixed border.
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MORRIS ARBORETUM
Photo: Rusty Kennedy
Inset photo: Paul Meyer
There are a number of cultivated varieties on the market:
‘First Choice’ – excellent dark blue flowers, compact habit,
excellent dark green foliage.
Grand Bleu™ (‘Inoveris’) – also with excellent dark blue
flowers, dense habit, glossy green foliage, flowers in September.
‘Longwood Blue’ – a standard of the industry, larger and more
vigorous than other forms.
Pink Chablis™ (‘Durio’) – if for some reason you don’t like
the wonderful blue flowers typical of Caryopteris, then try this
variety with its pink flowers.
Sunshine Blue™ (‘Jason’) – a form with chartreuse-yellow
flowers and light blue flowers; this is an improvement of the
older variety ‘Worcester Gold’.
If you are looking for a larger summer-flowering shrub, then
consider chastetree, (Vitex agnus-castus). If left unpruned,
chastetree will grow to 12-15 feet tall, but if pruned in late
winter, it can be maintained closer to eight feet. Vitex has
palmately compound leaves, providing plants with a medium
texture in the garden.
The large spikes of flowers bloom throughout the summer,
providing interest for several weeks. There are a range of
flower colors of chastetree, although plants with blue flowers
are the best performing and most satisfying in the garden.
Among the varieties of chastetree available are: ‘Abbeville
Blue’, ‘Mississippi Blues’, and ‘Shoal Creek’, all with deep blue
flowers; ‘Blushing Spires’, a light pink version of the shrub;
and ‘Silver Spires’, a white-flowered form.
All of the plants mentioned above have similar cultural
requirements. Although they can tolerate a range of soil types,
they each need full sun and very good drainage. So find a
hot, sunny spot in your garden for one of these plants. They
will reward you by adding beauty, color and vitality to your
landscape throughout the summer.
The Summer Palace
Renovation
Photos: Paul Meyer, Patrice Sutton
T
his past winter’s record-breaking snowfall took an unforeseen
toll on the Arboretum’s ephemeral sculpture, The Summer
Palace. Created last year by renowned artist Patrick
Dougherty, the sculpture quickly became a favorite of Arboretum
visitors who hoped it would remain in place for at least two years
before succumbing to the elements.
As spring arrived and the snow melted, the damage was unmistakable.
People remarked that The Summer Palace looked “deflated,” “sat on,”
and “melted,” but, happily, this is no longer so. For three weeks in
April, Andy Lynch, Dougherty’s assistant on a number of projects
and an artist in his own right, teamed up with staff from the Morris
Arboretum to bring The Summer Palace back to life. The sculpture,
which is made entirely of sticks and saplings, was literally pumped up
using an automotive floor jack and then reinforced in the weakened
areas. According to Lynch, sticks maintain a memory of the shape
in which they dried, allowing many of them to be popped back into
place. Some of the main structural limbs also had to be replaced.
The sculpture was lifted as high as possible without causing further
damage. It is now aesthetically appealing and safe to explore. Most
important, visitors are able to enjoy walking in and around The
Summer Palace once again. Many thanks to Andy Lynch for his great
work on the reconstruction, Patrick Dougherty for his input and
advice, Jane Korman and Patrice Sutton for spearheading the rebuild,
and Arboretum horticulture staff Imogen Anderson, Drew Hawkes
and Dan Church for their assistance.
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
6
Conservation Corner –
Rain Gardens
Photo: Louise Clarke
KIM FRISBIE, Freelance Writer and Directors’ Guild Co-chair
W
ith all the rain we’ve had this spring, now
might be a good time to consider implementing
a rain garden if you don’t already have one.
Whenever the topic of stormwater management comes up,
rain gardens eventually enter the equation. Rain gardens,
for the uninitiated, are shallow depressions located near a
runoff source that are constructed with pervious soil mixes
and planted with deep-rooted native plants and grasses. The
idea is to capture, absorb, and filter rainwater runoff before it
reaches the sewer system.
Rain and melting snow run off all impervious surfaces such as
roofs, driveways and even lawns, down storm drains, and into
our rivers and lakes. As this runoff is untreated, it carries with
it a myriad of pollutants, including oil, grease, salt, fertilizer,
pesticides, pet waste, transportation chemicals and a host of
other stuff that shouldn’t be in our fresh water – otherwise
known as our drinking water!
Rain gardens, when properly planted and situated, will
capture thousands of gallons of stormwater runoff and all
its associated pollutants. Once the water is captured in the
7|
MORRIS ARBORETUM
Louise Clarke, Horticulture Section Leader, Bloomfield Farm, recently
visited a rain garden at Glencoe Elementary School in Portland, OR to
gather ideas for the new rain gardens being planted at the Arboretum’s Horticulture Center.
depression, it filters deep into the earth where it is taken up
by roots of the native plants there, as well as nearby plants and
trees. Eventually, the pollutants are broken down and made
inert by the plants’ roots, mulch, and soil. If you consider the
moderate amounts of water and pollutants that runoff a single
property, and then multiply that by the hundreds of homes
in a given area, you’re talking about a lot of contamination
hitting our freshwater sources.
Not only do rain gardens filter pollutants and prevent
flooding and stream erosion, they also provide habitat for
beneficial birds and insects, while increasing the amount
of local groundwater. They can be shaped to fit any size
yard, and can be constructed with a wide variety of plants,
preferably natives. They’re beautiful and, once established,
they are extremely low maintenance. So what are you waiting
for? Get out there and start one of your own, and galvanize
the neighborhood while you’re at it!
The McLean Contributionship:
Committed to Botany
LESLIE A. WEISSER, Assistant Director of Development
“I desire that the [University of Pennsylvania]
maintain a laboratory in charge of [scientists],
for the purpose of botanical research and
dissemination of such knowledge to the world...”
–from the Will of Lydia T. Morris, 1932
I
n her will, Lydia Morris expressed her hope that the
University of Pennsylvania would keep botanical research
at the heart of the Morris Arboretum’s mission. For
almost 80 years as a public garden and center for research
and education, the Arboretum has been faithful to Lydia’s
vision and continues to be committed to four major activities:
research, education, outreach, and horticultural display.
Since 1933, the Morris Arboretum’s Botany Department has
grown to be nationally-recognized for excellence in research,
teaching, public outreach, and publication, most recently
through the leadership of Dr. Timothy A. Block, the John J.
Willaman Director of Botany, and Dr. Ann Fowler Rhoads,
Senior Botanist. The impact of their work reaches far beyond
the Arboretum, and their scientific influence can be seen
in the shaping of conservation policies at state, county, and
municipal levels. Their invaluable research and data collection
have resulted in growing requests for their services as botanical
and ecological experts, particularly in light of the public’s
Photo: Mark Stehle
concern for natural areas and the preservation of open spaces.
The competing demands upon their time as researchers and
teachers, however, are among the greatest challenges of the
department’s expanding reputation.
The McLean Contributionship recently awarded a 2:1
matching challenge grant of $120,000 to support the
expansion of the Botany department, recognizing the critical
role that this department holds within the Morris Arboretum,
and the extraordinary claims made upon the staff members’
time. This grant provides seed funding for the establishment
of a post-doctoral fellowship position within the department.
The post-doctoral fellow will have a background in botany
and the required technical skills needed to update, expand,
and implement the Arboretum’s Flora of Pennsylvania
website as a comprehensive resource on the flora of our state.
The fellow will also participate in the consulting projects
and fieldwork of the Botany department; teach at both the
Arboretum and the University of Pennsylvania; and explore
new research directions as developed by the appointee. In
order to meet this challenge, the Arboretum must raise the
$60,000 designated for this project.
The Morris Arboretum is honored by the McLean
Contributionship’s generous grant, and gratefully
acknowledges the confidence in the Arboretum’s work and
mission that is expressed through their support.
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
8
The Lydia Morris Legacy Society
VICTORIA SICKS – Associate Director of Development for Major Gifts
T
he Morris Arboretum has always benefited from
its long-standing relationships with members and
volunteers who take leadership roles in support of
the institutional mission. John A. H. Shober and his wife
Elizabeth have dedicated their time, energy and thoughtful
gifts over the course of many years. Most recently, their
desire to support the Arboretum has led them to create two
charitable gift annuities. John and Elizabeth recognize that
planned gifts such as annuities provide the stability and
strength that will insure the continued growth of the Morris
Arboretum well into the future.
Virginia Corporation, from which he retired in 1992. In
the ensuing years, John served as CEO or director of more
than 30 institutions, public and private, domestic and
foreign. Locally, he has donated his time and services to the
Eisenhower Fellowships, the Wissahickon Valley Watershed
Association and of course, the Morris Arboretum.
As a member of the Advisory Board of Managers, John has
served on the Finance and Board Development Committees.
Most recently, he has co-chaired Always Growing, the
Campaign for Morris Arboretum, with Susan Oberwager
(also a member of the Advisory Board), and has served on
the Campaign Cabinet. His
wise and steady leadership
combined with his enthusiasm
for the goals of the campaign,
have contributed greatly to its
success. Elizabeth is presently a
member of the Directors’ Guild
and an enthusiastic advocate for
the garden.
The Shobers are very clear
about the value and importance
of an Arboretum annuity: “We
think of the charitable gift
annuity as a flexible financial
product allowing us to rely on
a rock-solid stream of future
income (guaranteed by the
University of Pennsylvania)
while simultaneously building
upon existing endowment funds
at the Morris Arboretum.”
The Morris Arboretum is proud
to offer charitable gift annuities
as a vehicle to provide guaranteed income to the donor
while supporting the Arboretum’s important missions of
education, outreach and horticultural display. If you would
like more information about annuities or other gift planning
opportunities, please call Victoria Sicks, Associate Director
of Development, at (215)247-5777, ext. 152 or send an
e-mail to [email protected].
Photo: Paul Meyer
Following graduation from Yale in 1955 and subsequent
military service in Germany, John took a job with Smith,
Kline & French Labs (now Glaxo Smith Kline). As a
evening law school student at Temple, John remembers the
“old days” at the Morris Arboretum when he would come
to study in the quiet of the garden. His career eventually
led to the highest levels in management in the Penn
9|
MORRIS ARBORETUM
Gift Annuities
Pieces from
the Past
In these challenging economic times, a gift
annuity with the Morris Arboretum is a gift
with many benefits...
VICTORIA SICKS – Associate Director of Development
for Major Gifts
W
P Your annuity enhances the stability and growth of
the Morris Arboretum for years to come
P You and/or another income beneficiary receive
fixed payments for life
P You will receive a charitable deduction for a
portion of your gift
P A gift of appreciated securities may reduce and
defer capital gains tax
P A portion of each payment you receive is tax-free
P The payments are backed by the University
of Pennsylvania
For further information, please contact Victoria Sicks,
Associate Director of Development, at (215) 247-5777
ext. 152 or via e-mail at [email protected].
Sample Rate Chart for a $10,000 Charitable
Gift Annuity on a Single Life
Annuitant
Age at Gift
Age 60 Age 65 Age 70 Age 75 Age 80 Age 85
Annuity
Rate
5.2%
5.5%
5.8%
6.4%
7.2%
8.1%
Annual
Payment
$520
$550
$580
$640
$720
$810
Charitable
Deduction*
$2,471 $3,060 $3,802 $4,400 $5,006 $5,684
*Deduction will vary slightly with changes in the IRS Discount Rate.
Assumed rate 3.4%.
PLEASE NOTE: Charitable gift annuities are not investments or insurance and are
not regulated by the insurance department of any state.
hen Lydia
Morris
died in
1932, she left a long
and complicated will
through which the
Morris Arboretum
of the University of
Pennsylvania was
created. Lydia Morris
was deeply concerned
for her staff, and left
each of them a monetary
gift in addition to a
lifetime pension.
She also gave away most
of her personal effects.
Photo: Victoria Sicks
The Arboretum recently
received a set of beautiful Haviland luncheon dishes
from Mary Turner of Margate, New Jersey, whose
great aunt, Nellie Donahue, was the cook at Compton
for many years. When Lydia died, Nellie received the
dishes that were made in France for the J. E. Caldwell
Company of Philadelphia and decorated with a
delicate gold birch leaf pattern.
I recently visited with Mary, who shared with me
several interesting stories of Lydia and her household.
The one I liked best involved celery. Apparently,
Nellie was instructed never to serve celery as Lydia
did not like hearing the crunch in the mouths of her
dinner companions!
Morris Arboretum volunteers are conducting
additional research on the dishes which will be
placed in storage until a proper area to display them
has been determined.
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
10
A Look Back in Time
Rose Garden c.1924
HERB KESTENBAUM, Horticulture Volunteer
Y
ou probably remember what the Rose Garden looked
like the last time you visited it. But what did it look
like in 1933? What did the interior of the Morrises’
mansion, Compton, look like? How spectacular must the
view have been from that stately home, which stood on
the hilltop next to the parking lot until it was demolished
in 1968.
Thanks to a group of special volunteers, you now can find
photographic answers to these and many other questions
about the Arboretum’s 123-year history by logging on to
its website. Approximately 250 pictures have recently been
posted to the linked site, but there are thousands more
awaiting processing. They originate from a massive paper
catalogue of thousands of historical items. Among the
hundreds of images you
can see are photos of
Arboretum founders
John and Lydia Morris,
numerous garden and
landscape views from
Compton, as well as
pictures from some
of the Morrises’ trips
around the world. An
avid photographer, a few
of John Morris’ original
8x10 glass plate negatives
dating from 1899 survive
in the archives today.
John and Lydia in the Flower Garden c.1910
11 |
MORRIS ARBORETUM
Since the summer of 2008, Horticulture volunteer Leslie
Smith has been leading a team of five volunteers in
organizing, cataloging and processing the photos, blueprints,
landscape plans and other documents into a format that is
searchable and easily accessible to anyone with a computer.
Much of that work remains to be done, and more volunteers
would be welcomed. The
website also needs to
be managed, and more
research needs
to be done.
Their efforts are just
the latest steps in a
25-year-long crusade led
by Bob Gutowski, the
Arboretum’s Director
of Public Programs, to
rescue, assemble and
preserve photographs,
artifacts, books, furniture,
c.1854
journal – even buildings
– from the Arboretum’s past. Gutowski says some items are
likely to be displayed in the new Horticulture Center.
To see the photos, follow the link http://morrisarboretum.
pastperfect-online.com/. If you are interested in assisting
with the archival efforts, please send an email to pstprfct@
exchange.upenn.edu.
Catalogue of Plants in the Living Collection
Now Available Online
A
re you looking for Stewartia pseudocamellia in the garden? Well, now
you can visit the Morris Arboretum’s website and download a listing of
every living plant for which collection records are kept. The catalogue,
which is maintained by Elinor Goff, the Arboretum’s Plant Recorder, represents
7,897 records for plants and seedlots alive in the Arboretum as of February
15, 2010. Because a record may have more than one plant, our collection has
approximately 13,000 accessioned plants and seedlots. These 13,000 plants
represent 2,509 taxa (types of plants). Most perennials and annuals are not
accessioned.
The catalogue is arranged alphabetically by scientific name. It provides the
accession number, current location, scientific name, common name, provenance,
source, how received, collector number, and native range for each plant or
seedlot. Accession numbers ending with an “&” are seedlots or non-labeled
seedlings in propagation.
A grid map of the Arboretum is included to help users locate plants throughout
the garden. Plants that are located at the Greenhouse, the Nursery, or
Bloomfield Farm can be viewed by appointment.
Catalogue of Plants
in the
living ColleCtion february 2010
100 E. Northwestern Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
215.247.5777
www.morrisarboretum.org
Prepared by elinor i. goff
Plant recorder
To find the catalog:
1. Visit the Arboretum’s homepage at www.morrisarboretum.org
2. Select ‘Plant and Tree Collections’ from the drop-down menu under ‘Gardens’.
3. Scroll down to the link at the bottom of the page. The list is arranged alphabetically by scientific name and
you can locate a specific plant using the search bar. The second page contains the Arboretum’s grid map.
Always Growing
The Story of the
Morris Arboretum
Always Growing
Now available!
Discover the history and splendor
of the Morris Arboretum
in a beautiful 98-page book.
Available at The Shop for $14.95
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
12
Natural Areas
Bluebird Box Project
ANNE BRENNAN, Horticulture Section Leader, Natural Areas
E
ach spring, as green leaves begin to
appear at the Arboretum, so do the
bluebirds. Often seen at Bloomfield
Farm and around the Arboretum’s
entrance, Eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis)
begin looking for nest sites in late March,
preferring cavities in trees near open, grassy
areas. This season, 40 nest boxes offer
additional housing options for the bluebirds
and other cavity-nesting species.
During the past five years, Arboretum
Photo: Ruth Pfeffer
Equipment Manager Keith Snyder has
built the bluebird boxes and installed them on metal posts
throughout Bloomfield Farm and the Arboretum’s meadows.
Keith’s improved design allows staff to easily open each box
for monitoring and cleaning, and the vinyl roof covers (cut
from discarded siding) are added to protect the wood from
weather-related degradation.
Last year, recognizing that non-native house sparrows were
nesting in many of the boxes intended for bluebirds, we
began a program of scheduled monitoring to remove sparrow
nests and record occurrences of bluebird and other nests.
Throughout the 2009 nesting season, we visited each nest box
approximately once per month and documented several active
bluebird nests as well as nesting chickadees, house wrens, and
tree swallows – all desirable species. However, we found a
majority of the boxes to be hosting non-native house sparrows.
Not only do house sparrows compete with native cavitynesting species for nesting locations, but they will violently
eject a nesting bluebird, take over its nest site, and build their
own nest on top of the bluebird’s. Therefore, any friend of
the bluebird considers house sparrows the enemy. We learned
through research and experience that the uninvited sparrows
can and will build a nest, lay eggs and produce hatchlings
in just over two weeks, so our goal this year is to monitor
the boxes at least every 14 days to prevent their successful
reproduction. Our current policy is to destroy house sparrow
eggs along with the nests, but to leave nests with hatchlings
intact and resolve to monitor more often in the future. (This
may sound contradictory, and some bluebird supporters
advocate destroying house sparrows at any and all stages of
development, but that’s easier said than done when faced
with a nest full of baby birds!)
13 |
MORRIS ARBORETUM
Photo: Anne Brennan
Involved in and inspired by the planning of the new Horticulture
Center, Arboretum Equipment Manager Keith Snyder decided to see if
it was possible to add a green roof to some of the bird houses he was
constructing. After adjusting the roof angle to lessen the pitch, he added
a vinyl layer as a moisture barrier, and composite decking material for the
sides. The roofs were then planted with sedum, making them not only
attractive, but drought tolerant. One of the green roof birdhouses is located
on Northwestern Avenue on the Bloomfield Farm side near the bike path.
In addition to monitoring more frequently in 2010, we
believe we’ve improved the bluebirds’ prospects by relocating
15 nest boxes to areas more likely to attract our bluefeathered friends. As insect eaters, bluebirds are known to
prefer nesting sites facing lawns or other open areas where
they can easily locate food while perched atop the nest
box. You may have noticed the bluebird boxes we recently
installed along the Arboretum’s perimeter fence; these were
previously located on poles surrounded by tall meadows,
where they attracted only sparrows. Not only do nearby
lawns provide ample feeding opportunities for bluebirds, but
also the fence-mounted boxes will be easier for our staff to
monitor throughout the season.
As of mid-April, we had observed three bluebird nests, four
chickadee nests, and three tree swallow nests. Numerous
house sparrow nests have been removed, and no doubt we’ll
see many more as the season progresses. However, we’re
optimistic that the data we collect will, over time, clarify the
preferred nesting areas for bluebirds so we can continue to
welcome them back each spring.
Travel with the
Arboretum
Gardens, Wine and Wilderness:
A Tour of New Zealand
January 8-30, 2011
Imagine ... the trip of a lifetime. Under balmy skies we’ll
visit some of nature’s most spectacular scenery, interspersed
with wonderful examples of human creativity ... gardens,
architecture, artistic creations, fine cuisine and wine. Learn
the history and culture of a land from those who love and
care for it. Imagine ... a tour designed with the same care
and passion as a great piece of music or a celebrated garden.
The concepts of sequence, contrast, surprise, rhythm,
repetition, theme and variations apply equally to music,
gardens and to travel.
Membership News
Photo: Paul Meyer
CHESTNUT MEMBERSHIP –
The “Deluxe” Family Membership
Chestnut membership benefits have been expanded.
Members at this level may now bring two guests free
of charge every time they visit. All membership levels
offer complimentary one-time use guest passes, but
if you are looking for greater flexibility and would
like to bring guests regularly when you visit the
Arboretum, consider a Chestnut membership today.
This new benefit allows you to share our gardens
and exhibits with guests, and your children and
grandchildren will love it because they can bring a
friend anytime. Consider a Chestnut membership
next time you renew your membership, or upgrade
today by calling (215) 247-5777 ext. 151. For more
membership information, please visit our website
www.morrisarboretum.org.
For 15 years, Garden Adventures, Ltd. has been designing
and leading tours to New Zealand. In January, 2011, we
are proud to offer, for the fifth time, an opportunity to
experience the mystery, beauty and hospitality of New
Zealand. Join Richard Lyon, R.L.A., and Paul W. Meyer,
The F. Otto Haas Director of the Morris Arboretum, on
a winter escape where you will explore, learn and relax
in the gardens and natural wonders of this extraordinary
destination. This trip is offered exclusively to Morris
Arboretum members and Penn alumni. The approximate
price per person at the double occupancy rate is $9,750.
For further information, please visit our website:
www.morrisarboretum.org, or contact Victoria Sicks at
(215) 247-5777, ext. 152, or [email protected].
Photo: Victoria Sicks
Memberships Levels Offering Guest Benefits:
Bring Two Guests Any Time:
Chestnut ($165)
Holly ($250)
Oak ($500)
Bring Four Guests Any Time:
Laurel ($1,000)
Katsura ($2,500)
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
14
Woody Plants
Conference
T
he annual Woody Plants Conference, scheduled
for Friday, July 16, is the place to go for cuttingedge information on trees and shrubs. Held each
year on the beautiful campus of Swarthmore College, home
of the Scott Arboretum, the conference is co-sponsored by
Chanticleer, Longwood Gardens, the Morris Arboretum, the
Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, the Scott Arboretum and
Tyler Arboretum.
The conference is popular among both amateurs and
professionals, and it is a great place for networking with
fellow gardeners. Included with the registration is a free
admission pass to Chanticleer, Longwood Gardens, Morris
Arboretum and Tyler Arboretum for the weekend following
the conference.
This year’s speakers and topics include:
Well-known nurseryman, author and lecturer, Dan Hinkley
will discuss seed collection and plant evaluation of some of his
favorite genera. He will offer tips on propagation as well as
successful cultivation.
Tim Boland, executive director of the Polly Hill Arboretum
on Martha’s Vineyard, will highlight the challenges faced by
forests today including habitat fragmentation, invasive plants
and animals, and climate change. He will emphasize the role
humans have played in shaping the landscape and review new
approaches to forest conservation.
An exciting project in New York City, the High Line, a
former elevated freight railway on the west side of Manhattan,
will be the focus of Patrick Cullina’s talk, “Trees, Shrubs and
Vines on the High Line: Past, Present and Future.” Patrick
is the vice president of horticulture and park operations
for Friends of the High Line. With its opening in June of
2009, the High Line has become one of the country’s most
celebrated parks.
Gary Johnson, Professor of Urban and Community Forestry
at the University of Minnesota, will discuss the problem of
girdling roots that can cause premature plant death due to a
decline in health or a sudden failure during high winds. Gary
maintains that the problem is predictable, preventable and in
many cases, treatable.
To receive a brochure, please contact Longwood Gardens at
(610) 388-1000, ext. 507 or visit www.woodyplantconference.
org. No phone registrations.
15 |
MORRIS ARBORETUM
Fall Classes
L
earn something new, do something different. The
Arboretum offers an interesting line-up of classes
on topics ranging from arts and crafts to nature
adventures. Look for your Fall Course Brochure to arrive
in early August. For more information or to register for
classes call (215) 247-5777, ext. 125 or 156.
Digital Photography
Five Wednesdays beginning September 29, 6:30-8:30pm
and one Saturday, October 16, 10am to 12 noon.
This class covers digital camera terminology,
photography basics including exposure, aperture, shutter
speed and depth of field, and techniques for uploading
images into your computer and organizing them for easy
access. The instructor will also discuss the basic features
of Adobe Photoshop.
Create a Rain Garden
Saturday, October 23, 1-3 pm
Rain gardens are an excellent way to absorb rainwater
runoff from roofs, driveways, sidewalks and lawns so
that it can soak into the ground. Learn how to add rain
gardens to the landscape where they will be effective.
See examples of rain gardens and suitable native plants.
We will also cover selecting and preparing a site,
determining the size of the garden, choosing native plant
species appropriate for conditions, and using rain barrels
together with rain gardens.
Two Birding
Classes Offered:
Birding at Manasquan
Reservoir
Monday, September 21,
7:45am-3:30pm
Birding at Bombay Hook
in the Delaware Bay
Thursday, October 28,
7:45am-4:30pm
Join us for two trips to
areas perfect for birdwatching. Groups for each trip will
meet at the Arboretum and travel by small bus.
Starting this October – A new mid-week afternoon
series to stimulate and enrich. Speakers will take you
beyond our garden, connect you to their worlds in
the arts, sciences, ornithology, travel, urban design,
sustainability and humanities and...back home again
to our world of plants! Topics, speakers and dates
will be listed in the Fall Course Brochure and on the
Morris Arboretum website.
SEASONS Seasons newsletter wins
Garden Writers Award
Fall 2009
Volume 38 Number 4
T
he Morris Arboretum has been recognized with a 2010 Silver Award of
Achievement from the Garden Writers Association for the Fall 2009 issue
of Seasons newsletter. Chosen from more than 230 entries, Seasons was
given the award in the category of “Best Overall Product – Newsletter”.
The award automatically qualifies Seasons as a semi-finalist for a Gold Award
for “Best Talent” or “Best Product”. The Gold Awards will be announced in
September at the Annual GWA Symposium in Dallas, TX.
Hospitality Volunteers Needed
W
e are looking for volunteers with a passion for the Arboretum who will enjoy the energetic connection of
welcoming members and guests. Working collaboratively with Arboretum staff in three to six hour, fun and
high impact assignments, volunteers will help significantly enhance the visitor experience. A two-hour training
will be done by appointment. For more information or to set up a training appointment, please contact Jo Anne Miller at
[email protected] or (215) 247-5777 ext.184.
Photo: Paul Meyer
The Shop
at Morris
Arboretum
has a new
look!
S
top by and see The Shop’s
new layout and a cornucopia
of new items. Check out our
beautiful vases, jewelry, gardening
items, and Arboretum logo wear.
The Shop also has lots of great
items for kids, including fun toys,
books, games and trains. The
Shop is open 7 days a week from
10am-4pm during the week, and
until 5pm on weekends.
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
16
15
SUMMER CONCERT INFORMATION
On summer concert evenings, ALL CARS
ENTERING AFTER 4 PM will be charged
a per car parking fee instead of per person
admission in order to encourage carpooling
and accommodate more visitors with the
Arboretum’s limited parking.
JULY
Garden Railway Display –
American Roadside Attractions
Through September 6
Garden Railway presents
Circus Week
June 26 through July 5,
10am-4pm daily, Thurs. until
8pm, 5pm on weekends
The first circus was held in
Philadelphia in 1793. Come see
the Big Top and the circus trains,
learn the history of the circus and
watch for a few surprises.
3
22
Out on a Limb’s Birthday
Celebration
Saturday, July 3, 11am-1pm
See p. 4 for more information,
Summer Concert Series –
Groovin’ in the Garden
Two Thursdays, July 15
and 22, 7pm
Bring a picnic dinner and sit back
and relax to the sounds of classical
and jazz in the summer garden.
Free beer tastings, sponsored by
Flourtown Beverage from 6-7pm.
Concerts begin at 7pm. Blankets
or chairs are recommended.
17 |
15
MORRIS ARBORETUM
Photo: Arnold Winkler
summerevents
Photo: Rusty Kennedy
Beech, Chestnut, Holly, Oak, Laurel,
and Katsura members – Free parking for
summer concerts is a benefit of premier level
memberships. A valid membership (Beech
and above) card and photo ID must be
shown at kiosk to park for free.
“To The Max”
Thursday, July 15, 7pm
This multi-talented, multi-faceted
group pays tribute to a variety
of musical genres, playing music
of the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, as well
as today’s top music. “To The
Max” has performed worldwide
including in Japan, Africa, Turkey
and United States. http://www.
myspace.com/keepittothemax.
Cintron
Thursday, July 22, 7pm
Latin soul band, Cintron, is back
by popular demand and will take
the stage with a cast of 16 highoctane musicians who blend a
Latin percussion section with a
screaming and powerful big band
brass section, topped off with
smooth bilingual vocals. http://
www.cintronband.com.
Individual, Dual, Family, and Far-Away
Friend members and Penn Card holders
– Present a valid membership or Penn card
at the entrance kiosk to receive a discounted
parking rate of $10 per carload. Please
note: If you purchase a membership the
night of the concert, and have already paid
the non-member admission fee, you will
be reimbursed in full. Simply present your
receipt when you sign up for membership.
This is applicable only on concert nights.
General Concert Parking Fee Information
A single member in a car qualifies it as a
member car and makes it eligible for the
$10 fee. Per person admission fees will not
be collected from non-members in the
vehicle. Cars with no members will be
charged a $30 parking fee in lieu of per
person admission fees.
Walk/Bike/SEPTA Fees
Non-member fees for concert nights: $5 per
individual, 3 years of age and up (after 4
pm). No other coupons or discounts apply.
Members who walk, bike or take SEPTA will
not be charged a fee.
To expedite service at the kiosk on
concert nights:
• There will be a cash and members-only
lane. Cash is much faster to process than
credit cards.
• Membership cards will be required to
receive discounted rates or free entrance.
• Gate attendants will not be able to look
up your name if you do not have your
membership card on hand for concerts.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation!
Thomas the Tank Engine &
Friends™ weekend
Saturday and Sunday, July 17
and 18, 10am-4pm
Come visit the Garden Railway
and see Thomas & Friends™
as they take over the tracks.
28
Members-Only Bring a Friend
for Free Night
Wednesday, July 28, 5-8pm
Members of all levels are invited
to pack a picnic dinner or
dine at the café. This is a great
opportunity to introduce a friend,
family or neighbor to the Morris
Arboretum for free on one special
evening. Members are welcome
to bring more than one guest,
but are asked to accompany
their guests to the Arboretum.
Registration is NOT required.
Photo: Arnold Winkler
17
12
Great Trees Tour
Each Sunday in July at 1pm
Unusual and magnificent trees
have flourished at the Morris
Arboretum for more than 100
years. On this tour, you will see
champion trees, old trees, trees
from far away continents, and
trees native to Pennsylvania.
AUGUST
Summer Concerts Series –
WXPN Kids Corner Concerts
Two Thursdays, August 5 and 12,
6:30pm
5
Steve Pullara and His Cool
Beans Band
Thursday, August 5, 6:30pm
Back by popular demand,
this group includes a Parents
Choice award-winning three-piece
band. Their fun and hip music
draws from jazz, swing and pop
for all ages. These are tunes for
the whole family, that will bring
out the animal in you. http://
www.coolbeansmusic.com/
Miss Amy’s Fitness Rock & Roll
Thursday, August 12, 6:30pm
Miss Amy® is on a mission to
teach children about being fit!
As a mom, a certified fitness
instructor and an acclaimed
singer/songwriter with a collection
of four Grammy cataloged
children’s CDs, her programs
appeal to youngsters by engaging
imagination to teach basic fitness.
www.MissAmyKids.com.
Prior to each concert, from 5:306:30pm, the Little Treehouse
of Chestnut Hill (www.
treehouseplaycafe.com), will be
in the garden to introduce their
play café with discount cards and
to host a tots sing-a-long session.
Please see box at left for important
information regarding Summer
Concerts.
7
Garden Discovery Series
August 7, 11am-3pm
Create a Leaf Picture
Using various leaf shapes and
colors, make a one-of-a-kind
picture or collage. This activity
will take place near the entrance
to the Garden Railway.
ADMISSION
Adults (18 - 64yrs.)
Senior (65+yrs.)
$14
$12
28
Garden Railway presents
Circus Week
August 28 through September
6, 10am-4pm daily, Thurs. until
8pm, 5pm on weekends
Lions, tigers & bears on the rails?
Oh my! Catch the circus trains
before they leave!
New Members Lecture
and Tour
Saturday, August 28, 10:30am
Please join us for The Morris
Arboretum – Past, Present, and
Future with Director of Public
Programs, Bob Gutowski. The
talk will be followed by tours
of the gardens led by volunteer
guides. Registration is required
and space is limited. Kindly reply
by August 25. Register online at
www.morrisarboretum.org or by
calling (215) 247-5777 x170.
The Garden Railway
Display will close on
Labor Day. Don’t miss
the trains this summer!
The Holiday Garden
Railway returns Nov. 26.
Children (3 -17yrs.)
Members
$7
FREE
* Please note, Arboretum events are subject to change without notice.
Unless noted, all events are held rain or shine. In the event of rain,
performances will take place under the tent at the Widener Visitor Center.
SEASONS SUMMER 2010 |
18
Periodicals Postage
Paid at Philadelphia, PA
Photo: Judy Miller
100 East Northwestern Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Seasons newsletter is printed on FSC (Forest Stewardship
Council) certified paper, which supports the growth of responsible
forest management worldwide through its international
standards.
Join the Morris
Arboretum on
Saturday, July 3 as
we celebrate Out
on a Limb’s 1st
Birthday! Stop by
from 11am-1pm and
enjoy birthday cake
(beginning at noon,
while supplies last),
balloons, magic and
storytelling with Judy
Tudy the Clown, all
Out on a Limb!
Photo: Paul Warchol
It’s Out on
a Limb’s
First
Birthday!